Provisional implants for anchoring removable interim prostheses in edentulous jaws: a clinical study

Area of Science:

• Dental Implantology
• Prosthodontics
• Oral Rehabilitation

Background:

• Edentulous arches present challenges for prosthetic rehabilitation.
• Provisional implants offer a potential solution for immediate functional restoration.
• Interim overdentures anchored by provisional implants can enhance patient comfort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the behavior and survival rate of provisional implants used for anchoring removable interim overdentures.
• To assess implant stability and overdenture handling during the healing period for definitive implants.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-seven provisional implants were placed in 28 edentulous arches (maxillae and mandibles).
• Implants were monitored for loss rate and stability (Periotest) over 3-9 months.
• Handling and behavior of the anchored interim overdentures were evaluated.

Main Results:

• A premature loss rate of 29.8% was observed for provisional implants.
• Maxillary provisional implants had a significantly higher loss rate (36.2%) compared to mandibular implants (10.5%).
• Maxillary interim overdenture handling improved significantly, while mandibular implants showed greater stability.

Conclusions:

• Provisional implants facilitate immediate prosthetic rehabilitation despite varying loss rates between maxilla and mandible.
• Removable interim overdentures provide adequate stabilization, comfort, and satisfaction.
• Managing patient and clinician expectations is crucial for the successful use of provisional implants.